· 2026-06-16 · Sports Illustrated

The Buffalo Bills are facing significant injury concerns as they approach training camp, following their recent mandatory minicamp in Orchard Park. Key players Cole Bishop and Dorian Williams missed the minicamp due to injuries, with Bishop dealing with a knee issue and Williams suffering from a lower-body injury. Both players are crucial to the Bills' defense, with Bishop emerging as a top defender and Williams expected to assume a starting role in his fourth NFL season. Their injuries raise questions about their availability for training camp, which begins on July 29. Rookie Kaleb Elarms-Orr has stepped up in their absence, presenting a challenge for Williams to reclaim his starting position. Additionally, the Bills may consider signing veteran linebackers Matt Milano or Shaq Thompson to bolster their defense. Bishop's return is particularly vital, as he led the team in tackles last season and will need to quickly develop chemistry with new safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The Bills are also evaluating their cornerback situation, with second-year player Maxwell Hairston yet to secure a starting role, leading to increased competition with the addition of second-round draft pick Davison Igbinosun. As the Bills gear up for the season, these injury developments could significantly impact their Super Bowl aspirations.